Data shows that four out of five employers are willing to negotiate base salary for new employees, yet 49% of candidates never negotiate when they receive an offer. Negotiation is stressful, and you likely won’t get everything you ask for, but it is always worth the effort. Negotiating an extra $5,000 per year in your first job can yield nearly three-quarters of a million dollars in lifetime earnings. Set your career up for success using these tips to build your confidence in the negotiation process.
“Do your research and be sure to not price yourself out of the market. Consider negotiating a year end bonus if you think you can truly impact the company’s growth and overall success in achieving their targeted numbers!” says Sharon Tsao, CMO, Contemporary Staffing Solutions.
Talk About Salary During the Interview Process
There are few things more frustrating than finding out when you get an offer that the job pays $10,000 per year less than what you were expecting. Talk about salary throughout the course of the hiring process so you know whether pursuing the opportunity will be worth your time.
Know Your Market
When negotiating salary, you must keep yourself rooted in reality, which means knowing your value. Visit sites like Indeed, Glassdoor and Salary.com to get a feel for salary ranges for the position you’re going after, experience levels and your geographic area.
Benefits Matter
Compensation packages are not just about salary. Remember that benefits are valuable, as well. If your employer isn’t willing to budge on salary, it is acceptable to negotiate benefits like more paid time off, reimbursement for expenses, flexible scheduling and other perks. As with salary, make sure your requests are realistic. If you ask for five weeks of vacation at your first job, you aren’t likely to receive it.
Set Yourself Up For Success
Salary negotiations are difficult and stressful, which is why most people don’t bother. Many people feel awkward asking for more money, and they may be afraid they will lose the offer if they come off too greedy.
If your stomach flips at the thought of negotiating salary, there is a way to get paid what you are worth, know what employers are offering upfront, and get what you need without ever negotiating. How? By working with an expert recruiter.
Recruiters will talk about what you’re looking for in terms of salary right up front, and they will help you understand your true value on the market. When they match you to an opportunity, they will let you know whether the job falls into the range you’re looking for. If the job sounds great but the salary is a little off, they can even negotiate on your behalf.
Are You A Recent Grad Looking For A Great New Job?
If you are a recent college graduate looking for the right fit and the right salary, recruiters at Contemporary Staffing Solutions are here to help. We will partner with you to match you with positions that align with your goals. Contact us to learn more about our commitment to your success.